"I think I could have played and competed at an elite level," Smith said, "but with us coming together and realizing the situation with the nerve coming back, we're going to be patient and trust God's timing."

Smith tore his ACL and MCL in the Fiesta Bowl against Ohio State, which was his last game at Notre Dame. The consensus All-America selection also won the Bednarik and Butkus Awards and was widely regarded as a top-10 in the 2016 NFL Draft talent.

Smith had surgery before the NFL Draft last year to reconstruct his ACL. The surgery was performed by the Cowboys' team doctor.

The Cowboys placed Smith on the injured reserve list in December, ending his rookie season.

Smith said he thinks he'll be ready by offseason practices, which begin in May. In the meantime, he said he's just being patient.

"I've accepted the reality I won't be playing this year," Smith said. "I've come to terms with it. I understand God has a plan. I've been thankful to be on this team and to watch my guys go out there and ball."